CoffeeGearHub Tools
Coffee Ratio Calculator
Calculate the right coffee-to-water ratio for drip coffee, pour-over, French press, AeroPress, cold brew, and espresso.
Interactive calculator
Build a Better Starting Recipe
Choose your brew method, water amount, unit, and strength. The calculator will estimate how much coffee to use.
Recommended recipe
Use about 22.2g of coffee
Water: 355g
Starting ratio: 1:16.0
Approximate scoops: 4.4 tablespoons
For drip and pour-over, this is a balanced daily brewing range. Use a scale for best consistency.
What the Coffee Ratio Means
A coffee ratio compares coffee to water by weight. A 1:16 ratio means 1 gram of coffee for every 16 grams of water. For example, 22 grams of coffee with about 355 grams of water is a common starting point for a 12-ounce cup.
Quick Ratio Guide
| Brew Method | Starting Ratio | Best Use |
| Drip Coffee | 1:16 | Everyday automatic coffee makers |
| Pour-Over | 1:16 | Balanced manual brewing |
| French Press | 1:15 | Fuller-bodied coffee |
| AeroPress | 1:14 | Stronger, flexible recipes |
| Cold Brew Concentrate | 1:8 | Concentrate to dilute later |
| Espresso | 1:2 | Dose-to-yield espresso brewing |
Need Full Brewing Guidance?
Use this calculator for a starting recipe. Then visit CoffeeGearHub.com for full brewing guides, gear recommendations, and product comparisons.
Coffee Ratio FAQ
What is the best coffee-to-water ratio?
A good starting point is 1:16 for drip coffee and pour-over. That means 1 gram of coffee for every 16 grams of water. You can adjust stronger or lighter based on taste.
How much coffee should I use for 12 ounces of water?
For a 1:16 ratio, 12 ounces of water is about 355 grams. Divide 355 by 16 and you get about 22 grams of coffee.
Is the ratio different for French press?
Yes. French press usually works well around 1:15. That is slightly stronger than a standard drip or pour-over ratio and helps create a fuller body.
What ratio should I use for cold brew?
Cold brew concentrate often starts around 1:8. After brewing, dilute the concentrate with water or milk until it tastes balanced.
Do I need a scale to use coffee ratios?
A scale is not required, but it makes your coffee much more consistent. Tablespoons can work as a rough estimate, but grams are more accurate.